The lack of staff at health centres is causing delays in service which add hardships to people who are already suffering, said Alternattiva Demokratika chairperson Harry Vassallo.

Speaking in front of the Gzira Health Centre yesterday, Dr Vassallo said the new Mater Dei Hospital in no way helped the health sector as it was afflicted with other problems such as the doctors’ mass exodus.

He said that only specialists and high-ranking doctors would benefit from incentives introduced by the government, as pay was not the main issue.

Doctors seek better fortune abroad because they are guaranteed career advancements, not just more money, said Dr Vassallo.

Locally, doctors advance only if their senior retires, he said, adding that recognition should be given to doctors who have amassed experience in practising their trade.

This problem, said Dr Vassallo, did not just take place in a blinker as the writing had been on the wall for ages, yet no one cared to read it.

That is why 75 per cent of the last-year medical students will emigrate next year, he stated.

Dr Vassallo claimed that the government was failing to realise that it was facing competition both from abroad as well as from the private sector.

In the near future, the government might have to close down further health centres due to lack of staff, said Dr Vassallo.